GEORGE NEWS - The Outenikwastat Cypher is a growing hip-hop community in George that brings artists, creatives and audiences together through music, art, culture and knowledge.
The Cypher builds on the cultural work of platforms such as Parkjam, Expression Sessions and Guidy Worx, pioneered by internationally recognised Afrikaans hip-hop artist Hakkiesdraad Hartman.
“After several years with limited hip-hop stage shows and community events in George, the Cypher creates a space for artists to reconnect, perform, learn and develop their craft,” says the organiser, Ras Hein Scheepers.
According to Scheepers, hip-hop is rooted in five elements: DJing, graffiti, emceeing, breakdancing and knowledge of self.
“The Cypher recognises that hip-hop is more than rap music and entertainment. It is a culture built around expression, creativity, consciousness and community,” he says.
On Friday 11 September, Hartman will share lessons from his career and experiences working across public and commercial arts spaces locally, nationally and internationally.
He will offer aspiring artists insight into sustaining a creative career, developing their craft and navigating the industry.
The Cypher also provides young rappers and creatives with an opportunity to pick up the pen, step up to the mic, develop their delivery and stage presence, and connect with audiences.
Scheepers says the broader aim is to strengthen George’s hip-hop community while creating opportunities for artists to build audiences, develop their careers and work towards sustainable creative livelihoods.
The Cypher will take place from 17:00 to 23:00 at the Blanco Community Hall.
For more information, contact Scheepers on 084 787 8033.
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